Michigan approves $3.3M tax incentive for Meijer to redevelop old Redford High site in Detroit

As Meijer works with the city on plans for its first Detroit store, the state is paving the way for what could be the second.

The Michigan Economic Growth Authority announced today it has approved a brownfield tax credit valued at up to $3.3 million to help Meijer to redevelop the old Redford High School site in northwest Detroit.

The Michigan-based company has not yet confirmed plans for the store, and the credits are no guarantee, but the state says the project is expected to include complete demolition of the vacant school complex and construction of a new Meijer -- complete with retail, groceries, a garden center and gas station.

All told, MEGA approved tax credits for four brownfield sites across the state expected to generate $73 million in new investment and up to 403 direct jobs, including 83 at the potential Meijer store.

"Today's brownfield redevelopment projects further our efforts to improve our communities by repurposing blighted, contaminated or functionally obsolete properties across the state," MEGA President and CEO Michael A. Finney said in a released statement. "These incentives will help upgrade aged facilities, improve property values and bring new jobs to our communities."

Separately, Meijer has been working to build a store near Woodward and 8 Mile as part of the long-planned Gateway Marketplace. But the Detroit City Council tabled a motion for tax credits in September after residents voiced concern over the proposed development.

Council members first hinted at Meijer's interest in the Redford High site in June, with Gary Brown suggesting plans for a second store were contingent upon completion of the first.